Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Go raibh maith agat. With the permission of the Cathaoirleach, I would like again to raise with the Leader the Palestinian issue. I am sure all Members received this morning communications in regard to the current position of the two civilian vessels and the manner in which they have been treated. The Irish vessel was almost sunk as a result of water being pumped onto it by the Israelis. I know that the families of the Irish people on board, who are all people of conscience, are particularly concerned about their fate. They have been threatened with incarceration, ill-treated, roughed up and stripped naked and photographed. This incident has been off the radar for the past couple of days.

It is particularly important, given the position of the Irish Government in relation to a Palestinian State, which is what we favour, that those who wish to support the people of Gaza who are suffering are enabled to do so. Gaza is currently one of the most populated places on earth with 1.5 million people on a small piece of territory. These people are being denied their basic requirements, medical and otherwise. Children, women and old people are suffering. Ireland has always been to the forefront in the matter of human rights.

It is no longer sufficient for us to say we favour an independent Palestinian State. While our diplomats may be in touch with the situation, we must send out loud and clear the message that we do not want our citizens interfered with in this particular manner. Likewise in respect of the Canadian vessel; one of the people on board that vessel is an American journalist who has been able to give a firsthand account of what occurred even though her equipment was confiscated to ensure she would not get out the real story which would be in conflict with the sanitised story put out by Israel. I suggest to all who received the document that they read it closely.

In spite of the other pressing issues with which we must deal we must look after our people in difficulty and ensure the State or nation responsible answer for their actions. I suggest that the Seanad draft a resolution which ensures our immediate and urgent support for these people of conscience who are trying to help those whose human rights are not being upheld. I ask that the Leader consider the framing of a motion to this effect during the next couple of hours. This would ensure support for these people when they need it most.